People in or on the James River today must wear a life jacket by law

People in or on the James River today must wear a life jacket by law

PHOTO: Carrie Rose, Libby Hill, Richmond, VA

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) – If you plan to take a cooling dip in the James River on this record hot day, you are required by law to wear a life jacket in Richmond. Anytime the James River level, as measured at the Westham Gauge, is higher than five feet, people enjoying time in or on the James (whether by swimming or kayaking, for example) are required to wear a life jacket by law. The latest river level reading is 6.56 feet, as of 5:30 a.m. EDT Thursday, and the level will remain higher than five feet all day. You can click here to track the latest James River level and forecast. Enjoy the James River safely on this hot day!